1 of 7, community gives back by sprucing up cemetery

The NSU volunteer organization, 1 of 7, and other members of the community joined Friday, Aug. 24 at the American Cemetery to clean the grounds, clip overgrown branches and scrub tombstones. The annual clean-up campaign is dedicated to giving back to the community and organized by the Natchitoches Historic Foundation (NHF). NHF President Cathy Seymour said it was such a blessing to have so many hands helping. “We want our cemetery to look it’s best not only for the families of those buried here, but for our upcoming cemetery tour in October,” she said. Members of 1 of 7 choose one day out of the week for volunteer work. Other service projects include helping at historic sites and volunteering at numerous food pantries.

Photos by Hannah Richardson

Alanna Woodel – “I’ve been part of the PLP since I was a freshman. I’m from the area and it’s just great to give back to my community.” Clair Leming – “As the 1 of 7 Co-Chair, I love doing community service for a community that gives so much to us. I’m proud to do this not only as a Demon, but as a Natchitoches resident.”

Hayden Pilcher – “I’ve been volunteering with 1 of 7 for two years now. I’m involved with other organizations on campus and I’ve learned it’s really not an obligation to volunteer. As a junior at NSU now, I’ve learned that it’s great to give back.”

Tyler Magnano – “Cleaning up the cemetery is a great way to honor and respect the lives of those buried here and their families.” Thomas Young – “I’ve done a lot of community service with my church, so I figured, why stop now?”

Isabel Jemison – “I’m with PLP and I did volunteer service in high school as well. It’s just really fun to do community service.”

Rory Loud – “I’m an ROTC cadet. It’s good to give back and help the community.” Sarah Sargent – “I’m with the PLP. It’s great to give back with these great volunteers.”

Ryan Gremillion – “I did volunteer service in high school and just decided to continue doing it.” Lauren Briscoe – “It feels great to clean and give back.”

Gennyfer Pena – “I’m an ROTC cadet. I believe doing this really makes a difference to the families of those buried here.”

Selina Rouze – “I’m with PLP. After I get my business degree from NSU, I want to stay in Natchitoches. It’s important to me to restore the cemetery in the community I want to stay in.”